Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has ordered the convening of national sessions focused on energy and hydrocarbons, according to a statement released following a Council of Ministers meeting held Sunday. The move comes as Algeria aims to modernize its energy sector and solidify its position as a regional energy player.
President Tebboune, after reviewing measures taken to meet domestic demand for petroleum products in the short and medium term, emphasized that these national sessions are intended to “update data and define priorities regarding production and export.” The initiative signals a renewed focus on optimizing Algeria’s hydrocarbon resources and aligning production with both internal needs and export opportunities.
The President lauded Algeria’s recent achievement of exporting refined gasoline for the first time since its independence, marking a significant shift after decades of reliance on imports. He also instructed the Prime Minister to initiate discussions with Mauritania to establish Naftal-operated gasoline service stations within Mauritanian territory, expanding the reach of Algeria’s national oil company.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister has been tasked with developing a national policy for regulating and monitoring the consumption of petroleum derivatives, with the goal of increasing the strategic reserve capacity of energy materials. President Tebboune also ordered preparations for the launch of prepaid gasoline cards, particularly in border regions.
Emphasis on Refining Capacity: Tebboune stressed the need to accelerate the completion of the Hassi Messaoud refinery project to meet domestic demand for all petroleum derivatives and boost export capabilities. Naftal’s exclusive role in importing and producing raw materials and oil derivatives was also reinforced, positioning the company as the primary supplier for other companies and importers seeking to market these products within Algeria.
Focus on Tire Manufacturing: Beyond hydrocarbons, President Tebboune underscored the importance of advancing Algeria’s tire manufacturing industry, instructing the Minister of Industry to conduct a market study as soon as possible. In the interim, the Council of Ministers approved the import of 500,000 tires for trucks, buses, and passenger vehicles.
These directives reflect Algeria’s commitment to strengthening its energy independence, expanding its presence in regional markets, and fostering domestic manufacturing capabilities.
